Iceland is a land of stunning natural beauty, but it’s not just the landscapes that captivate visitors. The island is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, from the iconic puffins to majestic whales. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, here’s a guide to some of the incredible wildlife you can expect to see and tips on how to make the most of your experience.
Puffins: The Clowns of the Sea
Puffins are perhaps Iceland’s most famous bird species, and for good reason. These charming seabirds, with their colorful beaks and distinctive black and white plumage, are a delight to watch. The best time to see puffins in Iceland is from May to August, when they come ashore to breed.
One of the best places to see puffins is in the Westfjords, particularly around Ísafjörður. You can take a boat tour to nearby islands where puffins nest in large colonies. Another great spot is the Látrabjarg cliffs, which are home to one of the largest puffin colonies in Iceland.
Whale Watching: Giants of the Ocean
Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. The waters around the island are teeming with marine life, including several species of whales. The peak season for whale watching is from April to October, but you can spot these magnificent creatures year-round.
Húsavík, often referred to as the whale watching capital of Iceland, offers some of the best opportunities to see whales. However, you can also embark on whale watching tours from Reykjavík, Akureyri, and other coastal towns. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider joining a tour with Troll Expeditions, which offers a variety of whale watching options.
Bird Watching: A Paradise for Ornithologists
Iceland is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 300 species of birds recorded on the island. In addition to puffins, you can see a wide variety of seabirds, waders, and passerines. The best time for bird watching is during the breeding season, from late April to early July.
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, particularly around Stykkishólmur, is a great place to see a variety of bird species. The area is home to large colonies of seabirds, including guillemots, kittiwakes, and razorbills. Another excellent bird watching location is the Vatnajökull National Park, near Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi.
Arctic Foxes: Iceland’s Only Native Mammal
The Arctic fox is Iceland’s only native mammal, and spotting one in the wild is a special experience. These elusive creatures are most commonly found in the Westfjords and the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. The best time to see Arctic foxes is during the summer months, when they are more active and easier to spot.
If you’re staying in Drangshlíð in south Iceland or Hrífunes close to Vík, consider taking a day trip to the Westfjords to increase your chances of seeing these fascinating animals.
Seals: Playful Inhabitants of Iceland’s Coastline
Seals are a common sight along Iceland’s coastline, and they can often be seen lounging on rocks or swimming in the sea. The best places to see seals are the Vatnsnes Peninsula in the north and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon in the south.
For those staying in Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, a trip to the Vatnsnes Peninsula is highly recommended. Here, you can visit the famous seal colony at Hvítserkur and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
Plan Your Wildlife Adventure
To make the most of your wildlife adventure in Iceland, it’s important to plan ahead. Book your tours in advance, especially during peak season, and consider joining guided tours with experienced operators like Troll Expeditions. They offer a range of tours that cater to wildlife enthusiasts, ensuring you have the best possible experience.
Whether you’re staying in Ísafjörður, Stykkishólmur, Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, Drangshlíð in south Iceland, or Hrífunes close to Vík, you’re never far from an incredible wildlife experience. So pack your binoculars, charge your camera, and get ready to explore the wild side of Iceland!